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Designer Handbags

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It's easy to envy celebs for their extensive bag collections (not to mention the early access they're granted to said purses), but if you can tamp that covetousness down for just a minute, you'll find that it can be quite useful to admire from afar. Just note the shapes and styles your favourite tastemakers select and use those choices as inspiration. We'll start you off with the latest picks from the above, fashion forward ladies, as well as some alternatives.

Sienna Miller is currently carrying the YSL Besace Flap Bag ($1995) in Sky Anthracite, which seems to be the colour of choice for stylish Brits (see Kate Moss, Lily Allen). The satchel's soft shape was inspired by classic messenger bag and it's also available in a rich caramel shade ($1895). The Dylan Large Shoulder Bag by Linea Pelle ($475) also comes in a great grey and has a sleek and simple shape. Many readers were curious about the bright bag Mary Kate Olsen toted at Sundance, so we had to include it here. Her electric yellow frame bag is the Dior by John Galliano Babe Bag ($2600). It hasn't hit stores yet, but visit Dior for stockists. If you're craving a canary-coloured handbag, you're in luck this season. Nordstrom's Crinkled Patent Leather Hobo ($198) is beautifully bold, as is Francesco Biasia's Paula ($561.95). Rachel Bilson was spotted with Zac Posen's Woven Leather Drawstring Bag ($1995) on her shoulder as she made her way to a friend's house in LA. The tawny shoulder bag is made from woven patent and regular leather and has a braided strap. The similarly named Woven Pocket Shopper ($36) from ASOS is an excellent inexpensive option.

Lily Allen, seen above strolling in London, has the latest loveliness from Chanel. The classic shape of her 2.55 bag is updated via the fabric; instead of classic leather, this one is made from jersey knit. It's available in a small size ($2995) and big ($3195) and comes in red, purple, pink, and black. Check out Moe Bags Camy Patent Lamb Bag in Yves ($264) for a thrifty alternative. Gwyneth Paltrow carries Balenciaga's Lune Tote, which we found in forest green and black patent at Matches in London ($2519.56). The Pop Locks Top Handle Bag by Steven ($167) has the Balenciaga shape and a better price tag. Kylie Minogue prefers a large Chloe Saskai Satchel ($1680), which is available in a whole range of colours, like black, coral, turquoise, and grey. Get the same boxy blue feeling with the Ranger Medium Satchel from Michael Kors ($298).